Artwork
Frontispiece for Callot's "The New Testament"
Frontispiece for Callot's "The New Testament" is an ink print by the Baroque artist Abraham Bosse. It dates from 1635 and is held in the collection of the National Gallery of Art.
About this work
The text says this is a frontispiece (that’s a decorative title page) for a book called *The New Testament*, made in 1635.
This image is a black-and-white print packed with swirling, ornate designs. At the center, a banner holds French text in a fancy script. Around it, curved lines and shapes—like leaves, clouds, and scrolls—frame the whole thing. The edges look textured, almost like lace.
The text says this is a frontispiece (that’s a decorative title page) for a book called *The New Testament*, made in 1635. The artist used a technique that lets them carve fine lines into metal, creating detailed patterns.
Next, check out etching to see how artists like this made prints.
Overview
Abraham Bosse created the frontispiece for Jacques Callot’s *The New Testament* in 1635, utilizing etching—a medium central to his practice—to design a title page illustration for the biblical publication.
Subject & Meaning
The etching likely presents a religious or narrative scene tied to the New Testament, contextualizing the book’s themes. A central banner with French text in ornate script dominates the composition.
Technique & Style
Characterized by intricate, swirling designs, the etching showcases Bosse’s mastery of fine-line engraving on metal. The border features textured, lace-like edges, curved lines, and motifs such as leaves, clouds, and scrolls.
History & Provenance
Commissioned for *The New Testament*’s publication in 1635, the frontispiece’s provenance is closely tied to Jacques Callot’s work, though created by Bosse.
Context
As a frontispiece, it served to introduce and ornament the 1635 edition of *The New Testament*, reflecting the decorative and illustrative practices of early modern book design.
Artist & collection
Artist
Abraham Bosse (c. 1604 – 14 February 1676) was a French artist, mainly as a printmaker in etching, but also in watercolour.
